What is supervisory control and data acquisition software and solutions?
SCADA systems, or Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition, combine software and hardware to create an automated system that enables industrial organizations and factories to control processes and equipment. SCADA systems receive process data from devices and equipment located across the operation, including assets from multiple locations or facilities. Operators and supervisors use SCADA systems to monitor processes and data to gain the insights they need to identify problems and emergencies, optimize efficiency, and improve quality and profitability.
How does a SCADA system work?
SCADA software receives and processes machinery, equipment, and device data and displays that data on screens and dashboards, often in animated graphs, diagrams, and images. These dashboards give operators insights into plan operations in real-time and perform critical analyses to determine whether operations are running optimally, which adjustments are needed, or if urgent intervention is required. For example, operators can use the SCADA system to change rates and settings, recalibrate equipment, or shut down a process, if necessary.
What are the components of a SCADA system?
A SCADA system comprises several interconnected components that work together to collect and process data, including:
- Remote terminal units (RTUs) or programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that gather data from field devices
- Human-machine interfaces (HMIs) that provide a graphical representation of processes and enable operators to interact with the system
- Communication infrastructure that connects different components and facilitates data transmission
- Databases or historians that store collected data and enable further analysis
Common SCADA-related questions
SCADA stands for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition.
SCADA systems allow industrial operators to analyze, control, and monitor devices and processes across their production facilities. From small operations to some of the largest companies in the world, a wide range of factories and industries across the globe use SCADA systems. SCADA systems are vital for organizations to manage, control, and monitor physical operations across one or multiple locations. Numerous industries use SCADA systems to improve operations, including petrochemicals, electricity transmission and distribution, oil and gas, water distribution systems, wastewater systems, and urban planning.
SCADA software is the computer programming that enables users to monitor plant or factory operations. SCADA software processes data sent from microprocessors, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs) or remote terminal units (RTUs). PLCs and RTUs communicate with and pull data in from control equipment such as valves, pumps, and sensors. SCADA software also includes a human-machine interface (HMI), which allows the user to visualize data and monitor or control assets.
A SCADA system collects a wide range of data from industrial processes and equipment so users can monitor, control, and optimize operations. Data collected includes:
- Temperature
- Pressure
- Flow rate
- Motor speed
- Energy consumption
SCADA systems are incredibly versatile, with applications across various industries, including:
There are two major differences between a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition). The first has to do with the nature of the instruments. A PLC is physical equipment—hardware one can handle and examine directly. SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) is software, running on a computer in a manner similar to an operating system like Linux or Windows.
SCADA and PLC also have different target applications. SCADA systems are built for larger-scale applications, capable of tracking and managing data across an entire system. PLCs are designed to focus narrowly on controlling and monitoring individual components—such as specific tasks—within that larger system.
What is the difference between legacy and modern SCADA systems?
As technology has evolved, so have SCADA systems, resulting in distinct differences between modern and legacy solutions.
Legacy SCADA systems
- Hardware-centric: Primarily relied on physical hardware components for data acquisition and control
- Proprietary: Often used closed systems with limited interoperability
- Limited scalability: Difficult to expand to accommodate growing system needs
- Manual operations: Heavy reliance on human intervention for data analysis and decision-making
- Security concerns: Vulnerable to cyber threats due to outdated software and security protocols
Modern SCADA systems
- Software-defined: Utilize advanced software and cloud-based platforms
- Open standards: Embrace open protocols for better integration and interoperability
- Scalable and flexible: Easily adaptable to changing process requirements
- Automation and analytics: Employ advanced analytics and AI for data-driven decisions
- Enhanced security: Incorporate robust cybersecurity measures to protect against threats
What are the four types of SCADA systems?
There are four different generations of SCADA systems, including:
- First generation: Early or monolithic SCADA systems were independent and not connected to other systems, limiting their functionality to monitoring sensors and flagging emergencies.
- Second generation: Distributed SCADA systems connect multiple systems to distribute operations and exchange information in real time.
- Third generation: Networked SCADA systems communicate through phone or data lines, using fiber optics or ethernet to transmit data.
- Fourth generation: Internet of Things SCADA systems, allowing users to access information from anywhere in the world and perform faster data analysis.
Discover latest news and resources
Check out the latest news, and success stories
